The Eastern Light

The Dardanelles are a five-piece, consisting of Tom Power on guitar, Matthew Byrne on vocals and bouzouki, Emilia Bartellas on fiddle, Richard Klaas on bodhrán and Aaron Collis on accordion and whistles. They've quickly made a name for themselves with their energetic renditions of traditional Newfoundland jigs, reels and ballads. The Eastern Light showcases their affection for tradition and superb musicianship just in time for their visit to Scotland for 2013's Celtic Connections. Matthew Byrne delivers some sweet, melodious vocals on ‘Polly Moore’ and a poignantly heartfelt ‘Pad's Song,’ whilst the rawness of his vocals are used to great effect in the stripped-down ‘The Old Smythe’. The band equally excel in their rich selection of jigs and reels; ‘McCarthy's’ is a pacey and fervent opener, which neatly sets the scene for the shindig that follows. ‘Jim Rumbolt's/Gillis’ Favourite’ is a particular highlight; a salty, spirited jig which neatly sashays into a pounding piece of feisty Cape Breton swagger. The album closes with the vigorous chorale of ‘Big Bow Wow’ a burly and briny shanty which sees the band shanghai Great Big Sea's Alan Doyle and Bob Hallet, amongst others, in for a rousing and exuberant singalong.

The Eastern Light is a crisp, sharp and lively set, which simultaneously highlights the rich musical heritage of Newfoundland and delivers it with a hearty dose of vitality and gusto. With such a fine ear for tradition and a skilled group of musicians the result was always going to be a delight.